Congratulations to our very own SAC Tommy Mercer, IAMW RAF Brize Norton, who returning from injury stormed back to magnificent form, picking up 2 Bronze medals at both the ‘Heart of England’ and ‘Northern Home Counties’ Judo Championships.
At the Heart of England Championships, staged at the Walsall Sports Centre, SAC Mercer was competing in the under 81kg Men’s division. Competing in an exceptionally talented group of players, Tommy won all but one of his fights through a combination of superb throwing techniques and groundwork manoeuvres. Despite dominating and winning in his final fight, his opponent capitalised on an unfortunate mistake to take the win. Tommy was bitterly disappointed he made an untimely mistake, but it was awesome hr back on the podium and competing with the best of the British.
In the Northern Home Counties GB ranking event, he had 4 fights before losing in the semi-final and winning another bronze medal. On reflection, this has a been a magnificent return, and a solid base to build, strengthen and prepare for future National ranking events and hopeful qualification for the British Championships in December
Mercer commented “I’m bitterly disappointed, but I’m looking forward to staying injury free and hopefully winning some more medals and growing as a judo player and an athlete”.
You did yourself proud Tommy, and a massive congratulations from all of the RAF Sports Federation!
